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Corinthia Cromwell transcends rhythm and melody with Gospel and jazz on new CD(Published: April 12, 2012)

For Corinthia Cromwell, music transcends rhythm and melody; it is an instrument that conveys the depth of her spiritual faith, an outlet to express her love for God in a way that'll lift people off their feet and let their hearts soar.

On Peace of Mind Outside the Lines, her latest album with the Evolution Band, Cromwell unites the soulful passion and emotional highs of Gospel music with the calming tones of smooth jazz. Although she separates the genres by cutting the album into two stylistic parts, there's no denying how each of their elements crosses over into one another. From the rollicking piano and bluesy delivery of "One More Day" to the warm, swirling saxophone of "Sam's Jam," Cromwell effortlessly marries two of her biggest inspirations.

Cromwell's lifelong affection for music was sparked by jazz in her teen years, especially after hearing some of the genre's icons. "As a young musician I quickly fell in love with jazz and was introduced to several of the great jazz artists of all time," Cromwell recalled. "It was the mastery of Charlie Parker that captured my attention and the passion that I heard in his music. My world of creativity was opened and began to take on another perspective. I studied his work as well as his history; I discovered what I believed to be what motivated him and what was behind the music that he played and fell more and more in love with this art form called jazz. If I had to choose who influenced me the most I would have to say Wynton Marsalis. He invested in my artistic growth and love for this music; he also taught me to embrace the history of jazz and to study the characteristics of the music."

Although Cromwell is quick to applaud the legends that helped shape her technique, there is no doubt as to where the real influence is emanating from. "As an artist I believe that my evolution in music comes from my love and passion for God. He inspires and plants creativity in my soul and spirit," Cromwell explained. "That creativity and inspiration allows me to be free to demonstrate through music what is in my heart. The more I understand the power of music, the more I understand the need for music."